Ethnopedagogical Values of Ma’kombongan Kalua’: A Cultural Model for Interreligious Harmony in Toraja

Abstract

Interreligious harmony remains a critical issue in plural societies where religious diversity intersects with strong local cultural traditions. In Toraja society, Ma’kombongan Kalua’ represents an indigenous communal practice that may function as a cultural space for moral learning, social integration, and peaceful coexistence. This study employed a qualitative ethnographic approach in selected communities in North Toraja, South Sulawesi. Data were collected through participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis involving traditional leaders, community elders, religious figures, teachers, and youth representatives. The data were analyzed thematically through open, axial, and selective coding, supported by triangulation and member checking. The findings show that Ma’kombongan Kalua’ contains key ethnopedagogical values, including mutual respect, collective responsibility, deliberation, solidarity, cooperation, humility, and inclusive participation. These values are transmitted through communal preparation, shared ritual responsibilities, intergenerational interaction, cultural narratives, and collective decision-making. The ritual also enables Protestant, Catholic, and Muslim community members to participate in shared cultural practices without diminishing their religious identities. Such participation strengthens trust, reduces social distance, and reinforces a shared Toraja identity. Ma’kombongan Kalua’ functions as a living ethnopedagogical space that promotes interreligious harmony through embodied cultural learning rather than formal religious dialogue alone. The study suggests that its values can be integrated into character education, multicultural education, local curriculum, and community-based peace education. However, sustaining this tradition requires stronger youth involvement, cultural documentation, and collaboration among families, schools, and community leaders.